Summer is HERE! Are you looking forward to being outside in the sunshine? Seeing friends and family who live far away? Getting back to golf or tennis? We all have our favourite summer activities, and we’ve all been limited from enjoying them as much as we want to. It’s time to dust off that list of favourites and make some plans. No matter what’s on your list, be sure to add strength, stamina and agility to your goals. Because if you’re not in good physical shape, you’re going to continue to be limited in what you can do. It doesn’t matter what you’re hoping to enjoy. Being fit will help you do it, while improving your quality of life and extending your independence.

Let’s look at common reasons people over 50 decide to get fit or stay fit. What does each one inspire you to do this season?

7 Reasons Why

Grandkids. Nobody wants to be the “boring nana,” right? Millions of today’s grandparents play active roles in their grandkids’ lives. Summer Fun Item: Anything from playing tag in the backyard to coaching Little League, from flying to Disney or driving to camp.

Feel, Look and Move Better. Most of us want the benefits of exercise more than we want long hours in the gym. Exercise improves your mood, your appearance, and your mobility. Summer Fun Item: I want to look my best for our daughter’s upcoming wedding.

Hobbies. Gardening and hiking are just two of the physically demanding hobbies that people enjoy and want to continue, regardless of age. Summer Fun Item: Explore my town’s bike trails and parks.

Sports. Some people go to the gym because they like to work out. But for many, it helps them keep doing something else they love. Summer Fun Item: Beat my brother-in-law at golf again!

Travel. Is it time to resume checking off that list of places you always wanted to visit? Summer Fun Item: Meet old friends for walking tours of great cities or national parks.

Mental Health. You might know that exercise is good for your body. But did you realize it’s also great for your mind, helping to build memory and ward off dementia? Summer Fun Item: I want to pray or meditate on a beach, mountaintop, or countryside porch.

Physical Health. Did you hear about the real “wonder drug” to help keep your body healthy? It’s called exercise! Fitness even helps us recover from common surgeries and illnesses.

Summer Fun Item: I want to see shock (the good kind) on my doctor’s face at my fall visit.

It really doesn’t matter what you want to do this season. It’s your life! You should enjoy doing whatever you like. Stay active and have fun!

Content provided by Shelley Turk, Functional Aging Specialist and owner, ProActive Fitness

-Shelley Turk